Hayworth celebrates 25 years with Coralville

CORALVILLE -- Kelly Hayworth had no idea he would stay city administrator in Coralville for 25 years when he was hired in 1988 at just 26.

But, during a reception in celebration of Hayworth's 25 years with the city Tuesday evening, he told a crowd of more than 100 people that Coralville pride is what's kept him around.

"We've got a long history of leadership here and that's what makes it fun to be here and Coralville pride is what it's all about and we're going to continue to grow and prosper," Hayworth said, as people lined up to the back of the City Hall waiting to greet and congratulate him.

Since Hayworth was hired, Coralville's population has nearly doubled, he's overseen construction of the Coral Ridge Mall, Old Town, Walmart, Khol's and the Coralville Mariott Hotel and Conference Center, and he's worked with 14 city council members and only three different mayors. 

Hayworth, 52, was hired shortly after Coralville Mayor Jim Fausett (then-councilor), and Councilor Tom Gill, traveled to Creston, Iowa -- where Hayworth was working as finance officer -- to encourage him to apply for the position after their colleague recommended him. Though some were worried about his age at the time, Fausett said he knew Hayworth was someone special from the moment they met. And, after more than 20 years, Fausett said Hayworth has been instrumental in Coralville's success.

"I think Kelly has had a major role in everything we've done," Fausett said. "At the time we had started to do some things and were beginning to not be afraid to take action on things, but people really got started when we hired Kelly, that turned out to be the best thing we could do, he could take it from there, more or less."

Those who have worked with him over the years credited that success not only with Hayworth's qualifications, but personality and ability to hire good people to open city positions, trust them and allow them to do their jobs, and keep them on staff for the longterm.

"He's got the vision to look long-range, he's got the knowledge that comes from being involved for many years in city government and he's got the personality to work with the right people, but he's also got the professionalism to know that it's up to the council and the mayor to make the decisions," said Councilor John Lundell, who has known Hayworth his full 25 years. 

Hayworth, a Des Moines native, said he's loved living and working in Coralville, and that he hopes his work as administrator has improved the city.

"I would hope we're better, I really do hope we're better, but we can always continue to do better things and more important things," Hayworth said.